The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF, also known as the Fat Bob, emerged as a distinctive member of the Dyna family. Its signature features include twin headlights, a stout stance, and a chopped rear fender. Model years spanned from 2008 to 2017. Being the sole trim, its popularity stemmed from its aggressive styling and powerful Twin Cam 96 engine. New, it ranged from around $15,000 to $17,000.
The Good
The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fat Bob offers a potent combination of performance and iconic styling. Its Twin Cam 96 engine delivers satisfying power, appealing to riders seeking excitement. While not the most fuel-efficient, its relative reliability and unique aesthetic provide practical and emotional value. The comfortable riding position suits shorter to medium length rides.
The Bad
The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF, while generally reliable, can suffer from electrical issues and oil leaks. Suspension is often criticized as being stiff, affecting ride comfort, especially on rough roads. Inspect the motorcycle for signs of rust, especially around the frame and exhaust. The factory seat might also need upgrading for longer rides.
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Twin Cam 96 (1584cc)
- Horsepower: Approximately 65-75 hp (varies slightly based on dyno tests and modifications)
- Fuel Economy: Around 42 mpg (miles per gallon) combined city/highway riding. This can vary based on riding style and conditions.
- 0-60 Times: Roughly 5.5-6.0 seconds. This is an approximate figure as official manufacturer data isn't readily available, and performance varies.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable; motorcycles are not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features: The 2009 FXDF Fat Bob was primarily offered in a single trim level, with optional accessories available. Key features included:
- Black powder-coated engine with chrome covers
- Twin headlamps
- Chopped rear fender
- Bobtail rear light
- Forward-mounted foot controls
- Console-mounted speedometer
- Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
- 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
- Front and rear disc brakes
- 16-inch slotted disc cast aluminum wheels
- Optional features may include security system, different paint schemes, and various aftermarket upgrades.
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | FXDF |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | KANSAS CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1584CC |
| Engine Size | 1584L |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Have?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fat Bob, while generally reliable, has a few frequently reported problems. Electrical issues, particularly with the wiring harness and voltage regulator, are relatively common. Symptoms include intermittent starting problems, battery drain, and malfunctioning lights. Oil leaks, especially around the rocker box covers and primary chain case, are also known occurrences.
Suspension stiffness is a common complaint, impacting ride comfort, especially on longer journeys or rough roads. Some owners have reported issues with the fuel pump, though this is less frequent than electrical or oil-related problems.
There have been recalls affecting some Harley-Davidson models from this era, so it's crucial to check the VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure any applicable recalls have been addressed. Specific recalls might involve issues with the brake light switch or fuel tank leaks.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around corrosion, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent rust and corrosion. Some owners have noted the compensator sprocket in the primary drive can wear prematurely, leading to noise and vibration. Overall, while the FXDF is a solid bike, addressing these potential issues proactively can help ensure long-term reliability.
Suspension stiffness is a common complaint, impacting ride comfort, especially on longer journeys or rough roads. Some owners have reported issues with the fuel pump, though this is less frequent than electrical or oil-related problems.
There have been recalls affecting some Harley-Davidson models from this era, so it's crucial to check the VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure any applicable recalls have been addressed. Specific recalls might involve issues with the brake light switch or fuel tank leaks.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around corrosion, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent rust and corrosion. Some owners have noted the compensator sprocket in the primary drive can wear prematurely, leading to noise and vibration. Overall, while the FXDF is a solid bike, addressing these potential issues proactively can help ensure long-term reliability.
How long will the 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF last?
With proper maintenance, a 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF can easily exceed 100,000 miles. Many owners report getting well over a decade of service from their bikes. Regular oil changes (every 5,000 miles), proper storage, and addressing issues promptly are key to longevity.
Long-term durability hinges on corrosion prevention and addressing potential oil leaks. The Twin Cam engine is robust, but the compensator and cam chain tensioners can be points of wear over time. Consistent upkeep will greatly extend the bike's lifespan.
Long-term durability hinges on corrosion prevention and addressing potential oil leaks. The Twin Cam engine is robust, but the compensator and cam chain tensioners can be points of wear over time. Consistent upkeep will greatly extend the bike's lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fat Bob is relatively basic in terms of built-in tech compared to modern motorcycles. It lacks advanced entertainment, driver-assistance, or safety features commonly found in newer bikes.
Built-in Tech: The standard instrumentation includes a speedometer with an odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights for various functions like oil pressure, battery, and turn signals. It features Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) for improved fuel delivery and engine management.
Entertainment: There are no factory-installed entertainment features like radios or Bluetooth connectivity. Owners often add aftermarket audio systems if desired.
Driver-Assistance: The FXDF lacks modern driver-assistance features like traction control, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), or rider modes. These features were not standard on Harley-Davidson motorcycles of this era.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include front and rear disc brakes for stopping power. The bike has a relatively low center of gravity, which contributes to stable handling. Some models might have been equipped with an optional security system.
Optional Features: Optional features available from the factory or as aftermarket accessories included a security system, different seats for improved comfort, various chrome accessories, and performance upgrades.
Crash-Test Ratings: Crash-test ratings are not typically available for motorcycles from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Motorcycle safety relies heavily on rider skill and awareness.
Built-in Tech: The standard instrumentation includes a speedometer with an odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights for various functions like oil pressure, battery, and turn signals. It features Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) for improved fuel delivery and engine management.
Entertainment: There are no factory-installed entertainment features like radios or Bluetooth connectivity. Owners often add aftermarket audio systems if desired.
Driver-Assistance: The FXDF lacks modern driver-assistance features like traction control, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), or rider modes. These features were not standard on Harley-Davidson motorcycles of this era.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include front and rear disc brakes for stopping power. The bike has a relatively low center of gravity, which contributes to stable handling. Some models might have been equipped with an optional security system.
Optional Features: Optional features available from the factory or as aftermarket accessories included a security system, different seats for improved comfort, various chrome accessories, and performance upgrades.
Crash-Test Ratings: Crash-test ratings are not typically available for motorcycles from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Motorcycle safety relies heavily on rider skill and awareness.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Denim
Vivid Black
Red Hot Sunglo
Pewter Denim
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fat Bob had an MSRP of approximately $15,299 to $16,799, depending on options and paint. Currently, used market prices range from around $6,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and modifications.
Depreciation is significant but slows down as the bike ages. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition, any modifications (tastefully done mods can increase value), and documented maintenance history. Low mileage, original condition bikes tend to command higher prices. Limited edition paint schemes can also increase value.
Depreciation is significant but slows down as the bike ages. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition, any modifications (tastefully done mods can increase value), and documented maintenance history. Low mileage, original condition bikes tend to command higher prices. Limited edition paint schemes can also increase value.
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF can be moderately costly. Insurance premiums are typically moderate but vary based on rider history and coverage. Fuel costs are average for a motorcycle of this size, around 42 mpg. Routine maintenance (oil changes, etc.) is relatively affordable. However, repairs, especially electrical issues, can be expensive. Overall, it's not the most economical, but not excessively costly either.
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fat Bob competed with other cruiser-style motorcycles such as the Yamaha Raider, Honda Fury, and Triumph Rocket III (although the Rocket III is a larger displacement class).
Performance: The FXDF's Twin Cam 96 engine offers respectable performance, but the Yamaha Raider delivers slightly more power and a smoother ride. The Rocket III boasts significantly more horsepower but at a higher price point.
Features: Compared to the Yamaha Raider and Honda Fury, the FXDF offers a similar level of basic features. None of these models have advanced tech like ABS or traction control in this year. The Triumph Rocket III, even in its earlier years, tended to offer more premium components, but again, at a higher cost.
Reliability: The FXDF's reliability is generally good, but the Yamaha Raider is often cited as being more reliable overall. The Honda Fury is also known for its reliability. The Rocket III can be reliable but may require more specialized maintenance.
Price: Used FXDFs are typically priced competitively within their class. The Raider and Fury can often be found for similar or slightly lower prices, while the Rocket III usually commands a premium.
Alternatives: If reliability is a top priority, the Yamaha Raider is a strong alternative. If raw power is desired and budget isn't a concern, the Triumph Rocket III is a significant step up. The Honda Fury offers a similar aesthetic but with a more streamlined design.
Overall, the FXDF offers a balanced package of style, performance, and reasonable reliability at a competitive price point.
Performance: The FXDF's Twin Cam 96 engine offers respectable performance, but the Yamaha Raider delivers slightly more power and a smoother ride. The Rocket III boasts significantly more horsepower but at a higher price point.
Features: Compared to the Yamaha Raider and Honda Fury, the FXDF offers a similar level of basic features. None of these models have advanced tech like ABS or traction control in this year. The Triumph Rocket III, even in its earlier years, tended to offer more premium components, but again, at a higher cost.
Reliability: The FXDF's reliability is generally good, but the Yamaha Raider is often cited as being more reliable overall. The Honda Fury is also known for its reliability. The Rocket III can be reliable but may require more specialized maintenance.
Price: Used FXDFs are typically priced competitively within their class. The Raider and Fury can often be found for similar or slightly lower prices, while the Rocket III usually commands a premium.
Alternatives: If reliability is a top priority, the Yamaha Raider is a strong alternative. If raw power is desired and budget isn't a concern, the Triumph Rocket III is a significant step up. The Honda Fury offers a similar aesthetic but with a more streamlined design.
Overall, the FXDF offers a balanced package of style, performance, and reasonable reliability at a competitive price point.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF a Good Motorcycle?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson FXDF Fat Bob is ideal for riders who appreciate its distinctive, aggressive styling and the classic Harley-Davidson experience. It's a good choice for those who enjoy shorter to medium-length rides and prioritize aesthetics and brand appeal over cutting-edge technology or ultimate comfort.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition and price. A well-maintained, low-mileage example at a fair price is a worthwhile purchase. Given its age, buying used is the only option. Thoroughly inspect the bike for potential issues like electrical problems and oil leaks before committing to a purchase. Factor in potential maintenance and repair costs when making your decision.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition and price. A well-maintained, low-mileage example at a fair price is a worthwhile purchase. Given its age, buying used is the only option. Thoroughly inspect the bike for potential issues like electrical problems and oil leaks before committing to a purchase. Factor in potential maintenance and repair costs when making your decision.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.